Molar removal

[Tokyorob77]

Hi everyone.
Just had a molar removed due to it decaying. It was starting to smell sadly and the dentist advised me there was decay in the root. Tha tooth had aRoot. canal over 20 years ago. They whipped it out and after looking at it I’m surprised they couldn’t save it. Could a dentist not drill down and fill? It has 3 roots, solid and no pain. Bit late now but I have a huge hole and wondered why extraction was such a quick option.
Thanks in advance.

 

[Dr M]

The root was perforated due to the decay. I would not recommend saving this tooth and would also suggest taking it out.

 

[Tokyorob77]

Thank you.

 

[ToothPatient]

On the topic of molar removal, I'm curious what the long term prognosis of the area is?

Does the bone lose density, drift of adjacent teeth occur potentially causing biting difficulties and malocclusion, potential further eruption of opposite teeth?

Bone density loss can affect adjacent teeth also?

It really seems like a slippery slope en route to more serious dental complaints.

 

[Dr M]

Bone loss usually happens quickly for about 6 months after losing a tooth, and then it gradually stabilized and continues at a slower pace.
Drifting of teeth does also occur, but this also takes some time. Usually a few years. Drifting could lead to other occlusal problems at a later stage, since your "bite" changes